Mazda CX-9

Price Paid:  $28400.00 from North Park Mazda

Year / Model Reviewed:
2009 CX-9

Strengths:
Style, comfort, stereo, bluetooth, fun to drive, roomines, safety features, leather interior, zoom zoom.

Weaknesses:
Maybe gas mileage could be 1-2 mpg better?

Summary:
We had originally rented a CX-9 two years ago. My wife and I loved it. Back then my wife wanted to buy one. At the time we owned a Mazda Tribute. We currently own a Mazda 6 also. It was time to trade in the Tribute. My wife bought a new pearl white CX-9.

We had narrowed down our search to the Pilot and CX-9. The CX-9 looks the best and is more fun to drive. The CX-9 also feels faster. Be careful with the speed limit, the ride is deceptively smooth. The ride can feel firm if you go over uneven pavement. There is virtually no wind noise at highway speeds.

My wife always comments on how much she loves this SUV. Zoom zoom forever.

Similar Products Used:
Acura Integra, Ford Probe, Saab 900 Turbo, Mazda 626, Mazda 6, Mazda Tribute

Price Paid:  $32000.00 from Eldorado Mazda of Mc

Year / Model Reviewed:
2008 Grand Touring

Strengths:
Engine is a solid performer. Corners well, more car-like than my 2007 4Runner. The 6-speed transmission is smooth. Gadgetry is well-placed. Gauges are colorful at night and easy to see. Audio system is decent...not quite as good as the upgraded JBL in my 4Runner.

Weaknesses:
Nav system screen is difficult to read during daytime when sun shines in the windows. Audio system has too much sound in center speaker, and there is no control for adjusting. Memory seating is nice, but the key fobs keep losing the ability to trigger the memory seating.

Summary:
We bought this new a year ago. Driven it to California and back. Really enjoy the drive, interior room, fuel mileage, nav system, performance, and 3rd row seat. We also looked at the new Acura MDX (we had a 2002 MDX), Audi Q7, and new Toyota Highlander. The CX-9 GT has same stuff as Q7 and MDX, but cost thousands less. Highlander lacked the rear entertainment system.

Rear entertainment system is nice...kids really like it. Powered rear door/hatch is really handy. A/C is powerful. 3rd row seats are split, and easy to bring up and put down.
This is our first Mazda and we're really impressed with this vehicle. Driving to Cali and back to Dallas, we hit speeds up to 85mph and the CX9 handled well.